Hair Removal (Waxing and Depilation)
Hair Removal (Waxing and Depilation)
This domain tests wax chemistry, hair growth cycles, skin prep, patch testing, contraindications, and post-care for safe depilation.
Core rules
- Hair grows in anagen, catagen, and telogen phases; waxing is most effective in anagen when hair is attached to the follicle.
- Soft wax is applied thinly and removed with strips; hard wax is applied thicker and removed without strips, often for sensitive areas.
- Test wax temperature on the inner wrist or forearm. Use a fresh spatula and never double-dip into the wax pot.
- Avoid waxing over active infection, open skin, sunburn, moles, varicose veins, and recently treated skin. Topical retinoids generally require about 7 days off; oral isotretinoin often requires 6 months.
- Post-care includes soothing, sun protection, and avoiding heat, friction, and exfoliation for about 24 hours.
Worked example
A client used tretinoin on the upper lip last night and wants a lip wax. Reschedule and explain that retinoids thin the stratum corneum and increase risk of skin lifting. Advise waiting about 7 days after stopping topical retinoids and confirm with the prescribing clinician if unsure. Reasoning: wax adheres to skin as well as hair; compromised barrier raises avulsion injury risk.
Traps
- Double-dipping contaminates the wax pot.
- Hot wax can burn before it feels hot to the esthetician.
- Waxing over a mole or varicose vein is unsafe.
- Skipping a patch test risks a delayed reaction.